In the quiet suburb of Stow, Ohio, a community mourns the loss of Sean Flaherty Obituary Stow Ohio, a beloved educator, football coach, and mentor. His passing on June 7, 2024, left behind not just grief but a legacy filled with inspiration, impact, and integrity.
Whether you knew him as Coach Flaherty, Mr. Flaherty the teacher, or simply Sean — his influence reached far beyond the classroom or football field. In this tribute, we celebrate seven unforgettable life moments that define the spirit of a man who shaped lives with compassion, discipline, and purpose.
A Hometown Hero: Born and Raised in Stow, Ohio
Sean Flaherty was born on September 12, 1979, in Akron, Ohio, and grew up in Stow, a tight-knit community where values of hard work and family ran deep. He was a proud graduate of Stow-Munroe Falls High School (Class of 1998), where his love for football first blossomed.
- Local institutions such as Stow High and the surrounding schools laid the foundation of his character.
- His connection to the community continued throughout his life, making him a pillar of local culture and education.
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A Scholar and Athlete: Walsh University Years
Sean’s talents didn’t go unnoticed. He attended Walsh University, where he played as a tight end on the football team for four years.
- As team captain, he helped lead the Cavaliers to their first-ever national playoff appearance in 2001.
- He graduated in 2002 with a bachelor’s in criminology, reflecting his dual focus on academics and athletics.
These formative years were not just about wins — they were about developing leadership, teamwork, and integrity.
A Devoted Educator: 18 Years of Teaching
With a strong passion for literature and student growth, Sean earned his teaching certification from the University of Akron. He became a high school English and Language Arts teacher in Northeast Ohio, teaching at:
- Wadsworth High School
- Cuyahoga Falls High School
He wasn’t just an educator — he was a motivator. Known for making literature relatable and life lessons unforgettable, Sean’s classroom left an imprint on thousands of young minds.
A Mentor on the Field: 22 Years of Coaching Football
For over two decades, Sean coached high school football with heart, discipline, and strategy.
- Started coaching at Stow-Munroe Falls and Wadsworth High School — leading Wadsworth to a regional final appearance.
- Served as Head Coach at Cuyahoga Falls High School, and also coached at Medina Buckeye and Revere High School.
- Returned to Stow-Munroe Falls High School in his final seasons, coming full circle in the place he called home.
To his players, Sean was more than a coach — he was a father figure, motivator, and guide.
A Love Story Rooted in Loyalty: Marriage to Emily Howell
In 2008, Sean married Emily Howell, the love of his life. Their union was marked by loyalty, mutual respect, and shared joy. Together, they built a life full of purpose, laughter, and warmth — in the same community that raised him.
- They were proud pet parents to two dogs, Bernie and Lucky, often seen walking in local parks or cheering at high school games.
A Family Man with a Big Heart
Sean’s life was deeply intertwined with his family. He was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and godparent.
- Survived by his parents Thomas and Christine Flaherty, and siblings Michael, Brian, Patty, and Theresa.
- Loved dearly by nieces, nephews, and godchildren — always present at family gatherings and milestones.
A Legacy That Lives On: Community Impact and Final Tribute
Sean’s passing has deeply affected the Stow-Munroe Falls School District, students, colleagues, and the broader Ohio sports and education community.
- His funeral mass was held at Holy Family Catholic Church on June 13, 2024.
- The family requested memorial donations to the Stow-Munroe Falls Boosters, a testament to Sean’s lifelong commitment to youth development.
Conclusion: More Than a Teacher or Coach — A Local Legend
Sean Flaherty’s obituary in Stow, Ohio isn’t just a notice — it’s a story of resilience, purpose, and impact. He embodied the values of mentorship, service, and love for one’s roots. While the town mourns, his influence will echo in the hallways of schools, the locker rooms of football teams, and the hearts of everyone he guided.
“A great teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart.” — Sean Flaherty did all three.
FAQs – Sean Flaherty Obituary Stow Ohio
Q1: Who was Sean Flaherty?
Sean was a respected teacher and football coach from Stow, Ohio, known for his 18-year teaching career and 22 years coaching high school football.
Q2: Where did Sean Flaherty teach and coach?
He taught at Wadsworth and Cuyahoga Falls High School, and coached at Stow-Munroe Falls, Wadsworth, Cuyahoga Falls, Medina Buckeye, and Revere.
Q3: When and where was his funeral held?
His funeral was held on June 13, 2024, at Holy Family Catholic Church, Stow, Ohio.
Q4: How can I honor Sean’s memory?
The family requests donations to Stow-Munroe Falls Boosters at www.smfboosters.com instead of flowers.
Q5: What was his role at Walsh University?
He was a four-year football player, team captain, and led the team to a historic national playoff appearance in 2001.
